In a heartfelt display of support, unity, and grief, students and teachers from the Middle Country Central School District wore green to honor the memory of two Farmingdale School District educators who tragically lost their lives and the many Farmingdale students who were injured in a horrific bus crash on their way to band camp in Pennsylvania.

“The Middle Country Central School District extends our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the educators who lost their lives,” said Dr. Roberta Gerold, Superintendent of Schools. “Our thoughts and prayers are with those families as well as our hope for a speedy and full recovery for those students who sustained injuries as a result of this unimaginable and frightening accident.” 

Students, teachers, and community members in the Middle Country Central School District sported Farmingdale’s color green. The color green also symbolizes hope, renewal, and growth. By wearing green, the students and staff of the Middle Country School District wanted to create a visual reminder of their unity and support for the Farmingdale community. 

The Middle Country Central School District honored Patriot Day on September 11, 2023, marking the 22nd anniversary of this tragic day. Patriot Day serves as a solemn reminder of the lives lost and the bravery displayed by the first responders and citizens during that devastating event.

“Observing Patriot Day provides an opportunity for our students to remember and honor the lives lost. By observing this day, we can ensure that the memory of the victims and heroes are not forgotten,” said Dr. Roberta Gerold, Superintendent of Schools. “Throughout the day, various educational activities took place in classrooms, promoting understanding and empathy among students. Our students were engaged in meaningful discussions about the events of 9/11, emphasizing the importance of unity, resilience, and the power of community in times of adversity.”

At Eugene Auer, North Coleman Road, New Lane, and Jericho Road Elementary Schools, students participated in various classroom activities such as completing a heart-shaped flag and watching short clips about Patriot Day. Students read This Very Tree: A Story of 9/11, Resilience, and Regrowth  

by Sean Rubin, a compelling story about community resilience from the perspective of the Callery pear tree that survived the attack.

The Centereach High School Women’s Choir and Newfield High School student Thomas Lasher performed beautifully at the Centereach Fire House for the 9/11 memorial ceremony.  The choir opened the ceremony with the Star Spangled Banner and also performed The Rose and Sing Me To Heaven. Thomas majestically performed Taps on his trumpet. At Selden Fire House’s 9/11 Memorial Ceremony, Newfield High School student Jasmine Recova sang the Star Spangled Banner and Amazing Grace.

The Middle Country Central School District’s community members, families, and businesses come together every year to donate school supplies and backpacks to share with the students who need them. This year, Port Jefferson Elks Lodge, Healing Waters Church, Old Navy, Oxhead Road Elementary School community members, Suffolk Transportation, and the District’s PTA Council donated school backpacks and school supplies for a drive-up giveaway event scheduled to occur on September 13, 2023, at Eugene Auer Memorial Elementary School from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for everyone’s donations this year. Their generosity will make a significant difference in the lives of many students in need,” said Dr. Roberta Gerold, Superintendent of Schools. “ Their contribution will enable us to provide essential school supplies to our students who need them the most, ensuring they have the necessary tools to succeed academically. The donated backpacks will not only serve as a means of carrying their belongings but also instill a sense of pride and confidence in our learners. It is through collaborative efforts like these that we can create a positive change in our community.”